A Complete Guide to Restricted Regions and the Required Permits in Nepal
Notice: Nepal bans solo trekking for foreigners, coming into effect from 1st April 2023
Trekking in Nepal is a popular adventure activity that offers breathtaking views of hills and the Himalayas. While many areas are open to Free Individual Trekkers (FIT), certain regions are classified as ‘Restricted Areas.’ Here’s a comprehensive guide to these restricted areas and the required permits:
What is a restricted area in Nepal?
Nepal is country rich in nature and culture, boasting numerous Himalayas, national parks, conservation areas, and diverse settlements. While the majority of Nepal is open to all foreign nationals, certain areas were previously restricted and now require a Special Permit.
Historically, areas bordering Tibet were off-limits to foreign nationals for security reasons. Today, these high-altitude regions with low human settlement are considered risky for solo travelers and are closely monitored to prevent illicit activities.
Authorized trekking agencies in Nepal, such as Discover Altitude, can help secure permits for these restricted areas.
Who Needs to Obtain Restricted Areas Permit in Nepal?
Foreign nationals visiting areas like Upper Mustang, Manaslu, Tsum Valley, etc., must obtain a Restricted Areas Permit (RAP). This permit can only be acquired through an authorized trekking agency from the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu.
Popular trekking trails like Everest Region Trek, Annapurna Region Trek, Langtang Region Trek, etc., allow trekkers to travel as Free Individual Trekkers (FIT) upon paying the entrance fee for conservation areas.
Where to Obtain Restricted Area Permits (RAP) in Nepal?
Restricted Area Permits can only be obtained from the Department of Immigration through registered trekking agencies like Discover Altitude. The permit fees vary based on the area, duration, and season, and a minimum of two trekkers is required for a permit.
Conditions for Obtaining Restricted Area Permits:
To obtain a Restricted Area Permit, trekking agencies must fulfill several conditions, including:
Online application forms
Name list of all trekkers
Copy of trekkers’ passports
Trekking itinerary for the restricted areas
Copy of valid Nepal visa
Guarantee letters from the trekking agency
Trekker-agency agreement
Tax clearance certificate of the trekking agency
Insurance documents for foreign trekkers and accompanying Nepali staff
Trekking agency license from the Ministry of Tourism
License from Nepal Rastra Bank to exchange foreign currency
Certificate of Permanent Account Number (PAN) of the trekking agency
Voucher of bank payment for the Restricted Area Permit fees
Do’s and Don’ts for Trekkers in Restricted Areas:
Respect local culture, customs, and traditions.
Solo trekkers are strictly forbidden; there must be at least two trekkers in a group.
Carry and present Restricted Areas Permits (RAP) during trekking.
Be accompanied by a registered trekking guide and/or porter.
Have accidental travel insurance for trekkers and Nepali staff.
Follow the prescribed trekking route disclosed during permit issuance.
Comply with instructions from authorized officers in restricted areas.
Restricted Areas in Nepal and Permit Fees:
Upper Mustang (Mustang)
USD 500 per person (first 10 days)
USD 50 per person/day (beyond 10 days)
Tsum Valley Areas (Gorkha)
September-November: USD 40 per person/week, USD 7 per person/day (beyond 1 week)
December-August: USD 30 per person/week, USD 7 per person/day (beyond 1 week)
Manaslu Areas (Gorkha)
September-November: USD 100 per person/week, USD 15 per person/day (beyond 1 week)
December-August: USD 75 per person/week, USD 10 per person/day (beyond 1 week)
Gosaikunda Municipality (Rasuwa)
USD 20 per person/week
Nar and Phu Trek (Manang)
September-November: USD 100 per person/week, USD 15 per person/day (beyond 1 week)
December-August: USD 75 per person/week, USD 15 per person/day
Khumbu Pasang Lahmu Rural Municipality Ward no. 5 (Solukhumbu)
USD 20 per person for 4 weeks
USD 25 per person beyond 4 weeks
Upper Dolpa
USD 500 per person (first 10 days)
USD 50 per person/day (beyond 10 days)
Lower Dolpa
USD 20 per person/week
USD 5 per person/day (beyond 1 week)
Humla
USD 50 per person/week
USD 10 per person/day (beyond 1 week)
Taplejung
USD 20 per person/week (first 4 weeks)
USD 25 per person/week (beyond 4 weeks)
Dolakha
USD 20 per person/week
Darchula
USD 90 per person/week
USD 15 per person/day (beyond 1 week)
Sankhuwasabha
USD 20 per person/week (first 4 weeks)
USD 25 per person/week (beyond 4 weeks)
Bajhang
USD 90 per person/week for the first week
USD 15 per person/day (beyond 1 week)
Mugu
USD 100 per person/week
USD 15 per person/day (beyond 1 week)
Note: Free Individual Trekkers, either single or in a group, cannot obtain a RAP permit unless applied through a registered trekking agency in Nepal with a guide accompanying them throughout the restricted areas.
